The Worst Deal, but Nicest Looking | 2024 Epiphone Inspired By Gibson Les Paul Custom Ebony Review

[@Trog]

Would love to see some Epi "Widow" Customs at this price! That'd be fun 🟢For Sale on My Website: www.troglysguitarshow.com 🔴Reverb: tidd.ly/4aFiyhC 🐕 Private Help Sessions: troglysguitarshow.com/help-appraisals/

[@SeanHensley-kq6pf]

To be honest I don't care which one has the more expensive pickups. I would switch them out with Seymour Duncans anyway. Custombuckers are way overpriced.

[@Stykmon]

Bought the black one when they first came out in the spring. Just brought it for a setup. This is what my luthier (he's been at it for over 30 years) had to say about it - I worked on an Epiphone/Gibson most of the day. These Epiphone guitars have all Gibson pots, Gibson pickups, heavy wiring , Grover tuners, very well matched stop tail piece and great machined bridge and studs that actually fit tightly. Intonation was out and the neck was out but all in all a really nice guitar with good weight, not to heavy with that great D shaped neck. The 1/4 jack was heavy duty with good pots, all name brand parts well wired with heavy wire, much larger diameter than what I normally see. - He said he had to do more work recently on a brand new Gibson gold top than he had to do on this Epiphone. Love this guitar.

[@mr3klax]

This is what my luthier with 20+ years experience said about Epiphone Les Pauls “Epiphones in general, have less QC issues than Gibson. I like the Inspired ones a lot. They’re as close to being a real Les Paul without being an official Gibson”.

[@Mikey__R]

They are a real Les Paul. It says right there, on the headstock. 😊

[@mr3klax]

@@Mikey__R I totally agree. The only brand out there that is legally authorized by Gibson to use the name Les Paul on their guitars. Now, with the release of the Gibson Custom-Inspired Epiphone Les Pauls, it can be argued that they have finally crossed the finish line.

[@khyeRNR]

How does it compare to a epiphone les paul standard though

[@patrickgiles2700]

I honestly don’t understand the debate over the new pricing. Really? Have y’all looked at the 1000 series LTDs, or Pro Series Jackson’s? They’re all around $1,500 now! The new Epi gives you actual Gibson pickups just like the Gibson model, ebony, mother of pearl and a hard case for $1,299? I think it’s a reasonable price.

[@KellerFkinRyan]

true however those all have stainless frets which can save you hundreds down the line. I think it really depends on what youre willing to spend on. is maintenance a big factor? get the LTD. is the pickup a specific thing you need? go with epiphone. need both? sucks to be you, pay up $5000 or swap in Gibson pickups on an LTD

[@jkeating7906]

I think it’s hard to get over the perception of epiphone as a beginner/intermediate guitar. In my experience at least, ESPs are completely out of everyone’s price range so LTD is a good choice if you want that type of guitar, and many people play LTDs on stage without looking like an amateur. Jackson says Jackson on the headstock no matter what series it is, same with fender. But if you play an epiphone on stage people will think you’re an amateur. It’s a dumb and it shouldn’t matter but it does to a lot of people. I guess there would be uproar from Gibson owners if Gibson started putting their name on non USA-made guitars, though.

[@KellerFkinRyan]

@@jkeating7906 tbf fender does have the squier series, and even on the mexican fenders i’ve had some bad experiences. that said, american fender doesn’t seem to give a shit about the guitar unless it’s an ultra luxe

[@jkeating7906]

@@KellerFkinRyan yeah sure, but a Mexican fender is on the same level in terms of price and quality as a mid-range Epiphone these days, yet you still get to have “fender” on the headstock and look like a serious musician. Again, it’s all dumb but it makes a difference to a lot of people.

[@KellerFkinRyan]

@@jkeating7906 i’d honestly disagree, i think the high end epiphones are the shit. imho there’s no difference between one of these custom shop epiphones and a gibson other than nitro lacquer and a different word on the headstock. on the other hand, i think the mexican fenders are quite bad. it’s almost ironic that fender seems proud to put their name on those guitars yet gibson won’t put their name on these kick ass epis. as someone who works at an american guitar factory (won’t say which for job security lol) there really is no excuse for how much of a downgrade in craftsmanship there is going to a mexican fender. they’re all regular humans going to their full time job, and it’s inexcusable how many flaws come out of the mexican factory compared to corona.

[@CountScotula]

I've wanted a Gibson LP Custom since the 90s. I'm just a hobbyist so I could never justify the price. I had tried some of the previous Epiphone LP Custom versions but they just didn't do it for me despite them being great guitars. When these came out I jumped on an Alpine White one (which does much better at hiding scratches and swirls). It's really fantastic guitar and absolutely scratches that itch for me. I don't see it as I got a worse deal than the other inspired by Gibson guitars. I see it as saving almost $5000 for the guitar I really wanted.

[@michaelsakells169]

I got mine in alpine white last month from Sweetwater, and I've been playing it almost every day. I love it so much.

[@reverb508]

Congrats! Alpine White looks so nice on a Custom. Randy Rhoads fan?

[@michaelsakells169]

Yup, well any rocker who plays a Les Paul. I chose the custom in Alpine white because it pops out a lot more​ than the ebony version @reverb508

[@michaelsakells169]

​@@reverb508plus I wanted a custom shop les paul, but the gibson versions are too expensive, and I don't want mine to yellow too quickly

[@PicoDePaulo]

Did Sweetwater hook you up with a deal? I want one of these but the price is just a bit too much when I know I can get a MIJ Orville or Greco for around the same price

[@michaelsakells169]

Sadly no. This is technically my first purchase from Sweetwater. My coworkers recommended them since they set it up for me, and check the quality. ​@@PicoDePaulo

[@keithbolves278]

I actually just received mine today, and honestly I’m really impressed. I like it much more than I expected to. It looks awesome, it’s lightweight, it plays really well and the Gibson pickups are better than I expected. The sustain on mine is really good. Part of me was hoping I would not like it so I could return it and save the money. But I was so pleasantly surprised that it is now going to stay with me.

[@TheEvdavis7]

How are the frets? thinking about getting one have jumbo frets on it. Thes frets on the actual Gibson custom looks bigger/thicker that the fret on the Epiphone. What are your thoughts?

[@bikersoncall]

@@TheEvdavis7 Me too, I'm hoping the are smooth as butter, not bumpy. Most likely, from having played, upper model epi's in the past, they are super smooth.

[@dorianmorningstar7638]

You can criticize all you want these are fine guitars.. as the owner of both Gibson Les Pauls and The 1979 Adam Jones Epiphone Les Paul Custom theres nothing significant enough that I can find to definitively say that my Gibsons are 2K better than the Epiphone inspired by Gibson custom shop… criticism from this guy sounds a bit whiny and nit picky to say the least … Gibsons themselves make PLENTY of dud guitars so don’t be fooled into thinking that just because it’s a Gibson its better.. for example..this guitar is better that a Gibson Les Paul Studio in EVERY way.. it just is … and ANYONE can be a self proclaimed expert on guitars.. do your research people and stop taking peoples personal biases and opinions as gospel truths

[@pharmerdavid1432]

Well said, and supposedly if you flip the magnets on the 490/498 pickups it improves both of them, that way you have the AlNiCo-5 in the neck, and AlNiCo-2 in the bridge, which improves the tone in both - otherwise this is one of my least favorite Gibson humbucker sets. I also wish they used a satin finish on the neck, but I like the gloss finish on the body. Except for the gloss neck and pickups this is a great guitar, I'm going to be sanding the gloss off the neck and switching the magnets (haven't done it yet, but everybody that does swears by it)......cheers!

[@Elementalism]

I haven't played these custom epiphones yet. But I own a 2010 Epi Les Paul Standard and a 2021 Gibson 50s Les Paul Standard. The difference in the two is noticeable to me. I rarely play the Epiphone anymore. The feel, the sound of the Gibson is noticeably better. But like I said, maybe these new Epiphones have upped their game.

[@thepurgatorykids]

As an owner of both Epiphones & Gibsons, I agree with you that the Epiphones are great guitars now-- but if you're spending $1,000 on them, you are losing money because of the name on the headstock (whether it's fair or not, that's the market). Gibson, at least, holds better resale value. Maybe that'll change in the future, but it has certainly held true over the years to now.

[@fordhamdonnington2738]

Isn't it more than just the name on the headstock though? As these are manufactured in China.

[@thepurgatorykids]

@@fordhamdonnington2738 Maybe, but Chinese made Fenders hold better resale value than Squiers. These newer Epiphones are perhaps 90-95% the guitars that American made Gibsons are, in terms of quality and joy of playing, but unless the market changes over time, Gibsons are usually an investment while Epiphones rarely are.

[@IJIIKY9192]

I got one in white. I've used it twice live and it sounded and played great. No regrets and I love the 498t as well. Would definitely buy again

[@jessehurtado2056]

I purchased one for 1150.00, the I really love the 490/498 Pickups, that with the Ebony fret board, mahogany neck, maple top and real nice case, I cannot justify spending 5500.00 plus for the US made custom.

[@Whiskey04]

Trogly needs to come down his high and realize not everyone can afford a 5k Gibson custom. For $1300 new, that Epiphone makes kids' and even grown mens dreams come true

[@samuelllakaj5439]

Agreed. On the Epiphone. But I think even as a LP Custom fan, I'm slightly persuaded to get the SG. It IS a better deal (pickups) and maybe I'll like it more... I don't think so, but for the same exact price it's nice to hear the comparison by what we'd call a "veteran" who knows his guitars. That's my defense of Trogly.

[@Whiskey04]

@samuelllakaj5439 Trogly also does things to get views, and the headline on this video is one of them. He focused on the negative. Not everyone can afford Gibson USA

[@Djole_NS246]

No, it won't. They still won't have Gibson. The dream will still be unfulfilled.

[@matmetalhead6]

I mean, 1.3k USD is still very cheap compared to an actual Gibson, considering that a Standard is pretty much 3k at this point.

[@williamdesmarais4931]

That is a valid point, but when a 59 goes from $700 to $1,300 and the only real difference is burstbuckers vs custombuckers (which both have the same cost to manufacture) something is definitely going on.

[@martyshwaartz971]

There’s a LOT of really good single cuts in this price range though

[@tonedowne]

Yeah but you can get a second hand Gibson studio for that money and a new Tribute (if you can find one), which have the same pickups plus nitro finish. I can see the argument for the custom bucker loaded Epiphones with the thinner finish, but not this one.

[@bladeoflucatiel]

Gibsons costed 1k for studio/special models before the bankrupcy, I'll be damned the day I pay 1000 bucks for an epiphone.

[@ReubenGuitars]

The real issue is what a Gibson costs. Thats why they can try to justify these prices because if their "real" versions are daylight robbery, then they can justify charging more for the cheaper option. I dislike that mentality.

[@Loycole69]

It's crazy to think that at one point, Gibson couldn't even get ebony fretboards on their custom shop LPs for a time...now they are putting them on their cheapest Epiphone LP customs.

[@leviathan_is_me]

It's crazy that the cheapest Epiphone is over $1000. Especially in today's environment.

[@banditkeithkingofduelmonsters]

@@leviathan_is_me It's crazy that fools are buying overpriced import guitars made by slave labor. If I'm going to buy a guitar built by slave labor it should be cheap.

[@leviathan_is_me]

@banditkeithkingofduelmonsters right.... slave labor. You DO know 99% of these imports are built in the same factory with the same materials, right? Cort, PRS, Epiphone, etc.. just because something is made in a country other than the U.S. doesn't mean it is slave labor.

[@fernandosilva6295]

@@banditkeithkingofduelmonsters "I don't want to support the multibillion dollar company exploiting chinese workers, I want to support the multibillion dollar company exploiting local workers"

[@777Lateralus]

It’s crazy someone would pay over $1000 for tiis

[@eertje01]

They really should have re-introduced the Orville brand name and put that on the expensive epiphone headstocks.

[@HANDBALLDIEHARD]

The best copies and Gibson realized that and took the line over back then.

[@Edward1312]

Dont agree because Epiphone as a brand has far more Kudos and history than Orville.

[@TylerJohnstonGuitar]

I loved my Epiphone LP Custom when I had it. However, the pricetag on that one was 1,000 USD lower. I’d rather have something MIJ at this price point.

[@weedian710]

That would be awesome. I’d be a buyer for sure if they were MIJ.

[@johnsmith-oh2xo]

Yes I have a nice 1989 Greco EG59-70 made in the FujiGen factory and it is amazing.....

[@the_hippykiller22]

Any Edwards, Tokai, Greco etc would wipe the floor with that overpriced thing. This is a nice 500$ guitar.

[@thesleekgreek]

It’s true this is what I would say a ANYTHING Fujigen - like my Les paul blows all this epiphone and even most Gibson out the water

[@rocktorrocks]

Agreed! MIJ is way better value at this price point.

[@Myfingersstinklikefish]

From Sweetwater...Epiphone’s acclaimed ProBucker pickups The key ingredient to the Les Paul’s early success was the PAF humbucking pickup. The first of its kind to hit the mainstream, the Patent Applied For humbuckers defined the sound of a generation with their fat tone and clear response. With the price of vintage PAFs skyrocketing, Epiphone set out to create their own PAF-style pickup. Thus, the ProBucker humbucking pickup was born. Inspired by the original PAF sound, these pickups pump out full, overwound tones with incredible clarity. When you plug in, you’ll instantly recognize the signature Les Paul punch.

[@LeopoldShitzalot]

Absolutely these are highly recommended and acclaimed pickups it's amazing these so called experts don't know this but what do you want it's the Internet all walks of stupid are here

[@LG-ot9uv]

Nice guitar. I own a Black Beauty Japanese Epiphone LPC-80, made by the famous Fujigen factory. It has the open book headstock since back it was made in the 90’s. I bought it back in 2010 straight from Japan, from the renown retailer Ishibasji. It has a long neck tenon, the downsides compared to this guitar are the absence of ebony fretboard, real mother of Pearl inlays, and the pickups/ electronics, although the latter could be upgraded. Japanese craftsmanship is outstanding and people who are aware with the Japanese guitars, know what I’m talking about. It doesn’t need an additional advertisement: ) And I would buy one of these new Epiphones, if they released a Wine red Les Paul Custom.

[@ehsanhaq155]

FGN owner here. Those things can give Gibson a proper run for the money. I got Epiphone and FGN and Gibson LPs and from a purely value perspective, FGN wins easily.

[@Illsamustache]

They have released a wine red Custom. It’s the Jerry Cantrell signature LP Custom.

[@psychedelicspiderproductio201]

@@ehsanhaq155 I just recently bought a History (Fujigen-made brand made for Japan's Shimamura Music stores) LP Custom copy, and based on that, I'm definitely starting to believe the Fujigen hype.

[@thetoneknob4493]

ebony used to grow in several country's but guitar company gobbled it all up..their is now only one source for ebony. the owner of Taylor guitars bought the last remaining forest! and of those trees 1 in 20 of them will be black and suitable for fret boards. they used to scrap those 19 trees that went uniformly colored. i was more than disturbed wen i realized how much waste was created. the men cutting the trees only got payed for the black logs..well thankfully that has changed. they now use all of the logs they cut..that's why you might see white and black ebony on some guitars now.

[@Sameold87]

Hope they used the rest for other stuffs

[@ashleymerritt9461]

I think people really need to chill on this price stuff, a Gibson LP custom is crazy money, the epis used to be way cheaper when they used cheap pickups, plastic inlays and multi piece necks. Nowadays they genuinely are built essentially like a Gibson but from overseas, the price is fair more or less. We gotta start to see em more like an esp ec1000 or something.

[@tonedowne]

I think it’s the resale value that freaks people out. Having Epiphone on the headstock immediately drops the value as soon as it leaves the shop. Having literally boatloads of these turning up all over the world, all identical, is going to keep the SH prices down, and there is so much competition from other brands at this price point and below. And a lot of people are salty that this used to be the entry price into Gibson with the Tribute range, and that’s been discontinued and replaced with these Epiphones with poly finishes. Having said that, I think the 355 is actually a good deal.

[@the_hippykiller22]

I would agree if the quality was on par with an EC1000, and it's not

[@csharp57]

@@tonedowneLegitimately argument for those thinking about selling in the future. I’m thinking about carrying it to every gig I can for the next 7-10 years, hopefully passing in on well broken in to be played for years to come

[@Les537]

They spent 20 years teaching us that epi were cheap starter guitars. The brand is DEAD to me. Why don't they just print gibson on the head in the same way fender makes mexi strats?

[@tonedowne]

@@Les537 Or bring back the Orville brand name, or do like PRS by adding something like SE onto the headstock. Maybe IC for Import Custom

[@reverb508]

I think it's really cool that people can get "reasonably" affordable versions of high-end Gibsons that look the part. The headstock makes all the difference. That said, I do kinda wish Gibson revived the Orville brand to do this. Epiphone is a brand with its own history; I'd like to see them focus on making those guitars instead of budget versions of Gibson models.

[@mikestrowbridge]

The pickups are a down grade from the other models but as you pointed out, they are the correct pickups and you need the 498t for a modern custom so it is difficult to fault them for that issue. The fretboard is ebony while the other models are Indian Laurel so as woods go, this one is the closest, and to me that makes up for the difference in pickup cost vs the other 1,299 models. So the way I see it, I get a Custom for 1,299 with a finish that is more durable than the Gibson model and no fret nubs to go bad. Mine will be here on Sunday.

[@mr3klax]

Exactly my thoughts. 👍🏼

[@PeteSlater]

I have a Gibson Les Paul Modern with 490R and 498T pups and a beautful custom finish which I just love. But I don't like to take it outside to play due to it being so pretty and expensive. So I picked up one of these Epis in white, due to it having the same pups as my Gibson and an ebony fretboard which I love, and I gotta say, it's a wonderful guitar. It feels great in hand and plays really well. Also sounds very close to my Gibson. And I won't be afraid to take it out to play. My Gibson cost me over £3000, the Epi cost £1200. I consider the Epi to be a bargain.

[@mr3klax]

I also have the Alpine White and it’s immaculately gorgeous. There is a KZbin video where it compared the $1299 Epiphone Les Paul Custom to the Gibson Les Paul Custom and the $799 Epiphone LP Custom. Using Spectrum Analysis, the spectrum analyzer’s visual display showed that the sustain coming from Gibson and the $1299 Epiphone are identical. That video convinced me to get its Ebony version. My 2nd Black Beauty as I already have a 2012 Korean-made 3-pickup Custom that my luthier upgraded with premium components.

[@TM-ev2tc]

When you get new strings what strings do you use.

[@mr3klax]

I have one in Alpine White. And I like it. A lot. For me, everything about it is great. I am taking it to my luthier next week for a pro setup and fret dress. In the meantime, I took off the covers and checked out the parts. Mine has Gibson USA 490R and 498T pickups, CTS pots, Mallory caps and Switchcraft switch and output jack. I was pleased to find that the cavities were super clean and painted white. The wirings were neatly soldered and nicely tucked. I am very happy with this guitar. So impressed that I purchased the IGC 1959 ES-355 in Ebony within a couple of weeks later.

[@timaadland1460]

The reviewer is obviously biased towards Gibson, but having both and I can assure you that the Epiphones are awesome guitars, and I actually love my Epi MORE than my old Gibson! I definitely play it more than my Gibsom because I like how the neck feels, and it plays better. As for tone, obviously your not going to hear any differences on this demo and I can assure you the difference between the two are negligible. But if you want to split hairs, I find my Epi to be slightly clearer than the Gibson due to a little brighter tone, but that difference is far less than dialing the tone controls a few degrees. I would LOVE to say that you get what you pay for and that my Gibson is superior, but the honest truth is that it's not the case! In my opinion, the quality of Epiphoes are just as good as Gibson and I wouldn't pay the extra money for a Gibson today. The Epi's are just that good!

[@mr3klax]

Thank you for your honest opinion. On Sweetwater’s website, it’s interesting to read the owner’s reviews. There is a KZbin video where it compared the $1299 Epiphone Les Paul Custom to the Gibson Les Paul Custom and the $799 Epiphone LP Custom. Using Spectrum Analysis, the spectrum analyzer’s visual display showed that the sustain coming from Gibson and the $1299 Epiphone are identical.

[@NadiaPatrickZhukavaFuchs]

Uh, that looks like my very first guitar. Yamaha 80´s LP-Style. Don´t have it anymore but I think it was one of those "illegal" ones. Thanks for the memory trip...

[@ehsanhaq155]

Japanese??

[@666thsense]

custom buckers are not vastly superior. i bought the SG and i hate the pickups. they're good for cleans, but with any kind of actual overdrive or gain they're squelchy sounding and tinny/scratchy. wish it came with a 498 495 and 490

[@jackwinder]

Yes, my experience as well. I had them in my R7 (2019) and the sound was weak and jangly, no bottom end at all. I put a set of Bareknuckel The Mule in it and it sounds so good right now, very balanced. In other Gibsons I have modified 500T pups with one A8 Alnico magnet in it, very good for overdrive. 498T are very good for (hard) rock as well.

[@Zoso981]

I agree. I owned the new IBGC 59 Les Paul with the Custombuckers. I like to play with heavy gain occasionally, and those pickups aren't good for that at all. I sold the guitar and am buying this new Custom. I've always liked the 490/498 combo.

[@joermnyc]

Needs a middle pickup for some Jimmy Page Black Beauty mods. 😂

[@ferox965]

I imagine that will be coming, or held back to make a Bonamassa sig.

[@jimmyjames2022]

Epiphone Les Paul Custom (490/498) is $1900CAD in Canada versus the Gibson Les Paul Modern Lite (490/498) is $2000CAD. Epi brings the bling. I'm not a fan of the Modern Lite series (colors are awesome but light satin wears too fast; no coil taps in a "modern") so maybe the Epi is more tempting.

[@donthewatcher]

epiphone les paul customs had coil taps 2018 and earlier you can find them for $400 just put some 490r/498t gibson pickups in it no coil taps 2020-2021-2024

[@FrehleyBurst9-1878]

Nice Steve Jones Riffs! That is from the Sex Pistols LP Nevermind The Bollocks, Here's The Sex Pistols and the song is Anarchy in The UK. Steve Jones has amazing riffs on many songs. When guitar players think of The 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom in Alpine White some say Randy Rhodes but it was Steve Jones way before Randy and his signature will cost you upwards of 15K.

[@jubei7259]

Yeah, massive Pistols fan here. I got my white Gibson LPC in the early 90's coz I was in a punk band & Jonesy had one (still got her too)

[@donthewatcher]

well said honest review, I got a 2024 Alpine LP custom 5/3/24 got a great deal from instrumental music thousand oaks Ca, a mom and pop music store. The custom does have a maple cap and a long neck tenon unlike the 2021 model .

[@leviathan_is_me]

Every time I hear "premium like feature" I really hear "Charges hundreds for something they kinda trued to emulate..."

[@Crackshot729]

I'm sorry, what exactly is being emulated here? It's got a long neck tenon, it's got a one piece neck, Gibson pickups, mother of pearl inlays, etc. those are all specs, and I don't see anything being emulated. If your real beef is where it's made, just say so.

[@leviathan_is_me]

@Crackshot729 me? If so, my issue is basically what you said. It's a Gibson knock-off, made by Gibson. What's the point? Think of it like McDonald's for a sec. There was a dollar menu...now it's a 1, 2, 3 dollar menu. $5 foot-longs are friggin $13 now (let's see if...no, no one IS THAT dumb..)? Epiphone was a off brand. Now it got everything including the friggin headstock....it's a chibson made under Gibson branding for Gibson money. If I'm the only one with my head tilted, fine. I'll see ya down the road. I'll be the one holding the "hahaha told ya so" sign or eating the big plate of crow, either way.

[@waynegale1223]

@@Crackshot729 It's still made in China, that's the beef!

[@Crackshot729]

Good luck owning anything if you're unwilling to buy something Chinese made. As for the Epiphone, you're talking about $1299 versus $5000. If I can get something that is constructed similar to and plays as well as a Gibson for that kind of money, I'll take it. I own Gibson and I own Epiphone and unfortunately the difference is not that stark anymore.

[@leviathan_is_me]

Where it is made means little to nothing to me. I own guitars from Mexico, Indonesia, China, Japan, USA, etc.

[@sadlsore]

I love mine; I bought the Ebony finish. The pickups don’t have quite as much oomph as my 2017 Custom Lite, but sound great nonetheless- end the difference might be as simple as a pickup height adjustment. It plays itself and even unplugged, the tone and sustain are amazing. I don’t really care about a thin nitro finish, though I realize tastes differ.

[@MrJingles021]

I just got a purple Les Paul Modern. The volume knob sat really high. The frets are actually pretty level, and the action was set at 3/64s for the high e and nothing fretting out...but fret ends aren't good

[@jackwinder]

Thanks for the review! I ordered a black one last week with a 18% discount at Baxshop (Holland) and that price is okay for me (1125 Euro). I always wanted a Custom next to my USA Gibsons and R7 CS but for gigs I would not dare to bring a Gibson Custom and I don't want to spend 5330 Euro as well. It's a personal choice you make and what suits best in a certain situation.

[@MutantGenius]

Trogly, I couldn't help but notice that Gibson's 490R/498T set is advertised as having 4-conductor wiring, which has a gray plastic coat. If Epiphone is advertising having that set in this LP Custom, why do I see silver braided wire (2-conductor) instead of a gray-colored wire (4-conductor)? Could those pickups be old stock?

[@aronchas]

Are these available lefthanded?

[@J_Braz_]

This guitar has the regular Epiphone bridge adjustment. The other new epis have the Gibson style adjustment. Im curious why that is.

[@Trog]

because it isn't a specific year reissue custom so they used the "Nashville Bridge" epiphone equivalent. I'm surprised they didn't do the ABR-1 style inserts too just to have uniformity in the collection

[@J_Braz_]

@@Trog wow! My first reply form the man, the myth, the legend,The Trog!!! I am not worthy! I am not worthy!!! Seriously though. Huge fan of your channel. Been watching for many years. ✌️

[@bikersoncall]

What color/shade are the body bindings, and do they match the neck bindings?

[@doctoribanez]

You can get a ltd ec1000 for te same and it will have a fancy top, name brand pickups and tonepros bridge and tail piece with locking tuners, stainless steel frets

[@robertcarey3383]

The ESP is a MUCH better guitar than the Epiphone. For 1500 you can get a Fgn 20 Les Paul out of the Ibanez factory in Japan (Where they make the Japan custom shop Ibanez) and it is a better guitar than the Gibson.

[@the_hippykiller22]

The EC1000 is gonna be a much better guitar. Sadly it doesn't look like a Gibson so it's a no go for a lot of people. Also the upper fret access is much better

[@scottclydesdale1674]

@@the_hippykiller22 Just ordered an ec-1000fr see-through-black. I like the look of this ESPs version of a single cut as much as Gibson's.

[@drippinglass]

Why do LTD guys always call their guitars ESP?

[@scottclydesdale1674]

@@drippinglass Because they come in a box with the large letters ESP ?

[@Lukeclayson]

I’ve always wanted a black LP custom, I have Gibson USA guitars but I just can’t justify spending between £5k and £7k on one depending on the model. This new Epiphone one is very tempting.

[@eddierosales1680]

My problem with these is the choices! Between the 2 customs, 59 std, korina explorer, and 355, how can I possibly pick just one?

[@ronyeahright9536]

you can pick 4 of them for the price of one gibby....so, enjoy.

[@clarkbabin9799]

I hear no difference between the Tribal or the Epi.

[@PrisonerD]

Not sure what speakers you're listening on, but there was a clear cut difference between them - the Gibson had a much clearer tone and more bite to the attack of the notes.

[@vincentnieto7792]

Small difference. The Epiphone still sounds great.

[@jimjim7008]

I've noticed huge difference, the Epiphone sounded tinny/thin while the Gibson sounded warmer fuller. Pretty sure the feel is different too due to the nitro finish on the Gibson.

[@plecogod]

@@PrisonerD There is definitely a difference, but I would have liked to have heard the Epiphone with a new set of strings. If you notice, Trogly almost never changes the strings on the guitars he throws on the bench. If you have ever bought a used guitar with old strings or a new guitar with cheap strings, you know how much of a difference a new set of your favorite strings will make. Not saying the Gibson pickups are not better, but they are not 4-5 times as good IMO.

[@IndyRockStar]

I do not know why Gibson and Epiphone always use a white(ish) switch tip on the Ebony LP Custom. Changing it to a black switch tip is the first thing I changed on my Gibson Custom LP Custom. The white switch tip looks so out of place with the rest of the guitar.

[@ChrisShortyAllen]

To match the binding. Black is not a colour.

[@the_hippykiller22]

I put a gold switch tip on mine, looks great

[@IndyRockStar]

@@ChrisShortyAllen It still look dumb.

[@IndyRockStar]

@@the_hippykiller22 I thought about putting a brass one on mine too. Good idea..

[@vegasdogg111]

Does anyone know what the difference is between the epiphany les Paul custom pro vs the epiphone les Paul custom is? I bought a used 2019 epi lp custome pro and don’t know much about them. Thanks in advance for any replies.

[@andrewhouse3246]

You tried and tried, even brought out the Gibson....for 1200$ it's a winner.

[@ChroniclesOfASadPunk]

I've never played a Gibson/Epi with Custombuckers, but I love the 498T/490R combo. Perhaps more than the Burstbuckers. It comes down to that hot bridge pickup. If I reach for a humbucker guitar, my Les Paul Studio is my choice.

[@onlyguitars]

Epi 355 in White!!!!!

[@TayTayKemp]

Imma take a hard pass on any epiphone especially one for $1300. I’ll just get a nicer guitar from another manufacturer or a used Gibson

[@florisvanlingen]

I also recently took a hard pass on Gibson. For €2400 you can get an Eastman, Maybach Lester or Tokai that is made with quality materials, feels and sounds just as good as the €3000 Gibson if not better and has a fit and finish twice as good.

[@gavinsomerville7690]

Epiphone is a Gibson. It’s a Gibson with a shitty nut, iffy fretwear, and good electronics with crappy wiring. Way more bang for your buck and they sound identical.

[@TayTayKemp]

@@gavinsomerville7690 when you know you know, when you don’t know you don’t know

[@gavinsomerville7690]

@@TayTayKemp I’ve been a professional luthier for years. I know the difference in quality and have repaired many vintage Gibsons from their golden era. After you’ve repaired a couple thousand guitars, you get pretty familiar with how it all works, and what matters and doesn’t.

[@TayTayKemp]

@@gavinsomerville7690 that’s nice, I gave my opinion, I clearly disagree with yours. I feel differently based on my many years of playing and working on guitars too

[@jimwguitar3002]

I picked up an older custom for $125 that needed one fret replaced. Did that. Put some blackouts in and it plays and sounds amazing.

[@fattony4961]

If you contact one of the large online chains like GC or SW, you can usually get 10% off the MSRP, which brings the price down to what appears to be a more realistic number. So in this case, the price would be brought down to $1170 Instead of $1300 or in the instance of AJ79 MSRP was $1500. I paid $1349 however with GC make sure you specify you want a guitar that is still sealed in the box from the warehouse otherwise you might get a floor model.

[@badmen1550]

How does the neck profile compare to the slightly older 2020 Epiphone LPC model (the $799 one)?

[@IsabellaCatherine19XX]

12:48 What song is that? It sounds like Ambition by Glen Matlock.

[@DeltaJazzUK]

Sex Pistols - Anarchy in the UK

[@IsabellaCatherine19XX]

@@DeltaJazzUK Ah yes. Thank you.

[@svenweise3169]

Whats the better guitar? This one or the japanese Elite/elitist les Paul from the early 2000?

[@trevor4533]

Elitist is the better built guitar, but the Epiphone has better electronics.

[@svenweise3169]

@@trevor4533 I've got 2 elitist/ elite and love them

[@mr3klax]

These Inspired by Gibson Custom Les Paul Custom have been in back order for quite some time now at Sweetwater. Just placed my order today (my second). I was told that the October and November shipments are already sold.

[@alexandrelamarche42]

I was able to buy one last week from a local music store. Very good guitar.

[@mr3klax]

@@alexandrelamarche42 I hope you got a good discount.

[@mr3klax]

Thanks for this video. It has been a month actually since I got this guitar in Alpine White. And I am loving it. Since I don’t have a Gibson, I don’t have an idea what I am missing. I am really happy and contented with my 5 Epiphone Les Pauls. And since I already have an MIK 2012 Epiphone Les Paul Custom in Ebony, I decided to order the IBGC 1959 ES-355 in Ebony. This would be my first-ever semi-hollow body. Can’t wait.

[@stephenzimmerman5517]

I've owned several Gibson Les Paul guitars. I purchased the Epiphone Les Paul Custom Koa Top. It's a really good guitar. I love it. CTS POTS, GRAPHTEC NUT, EBONY FRETBOARD, GROVER TUNERS. I did a blind test at Guitar Center, and I couldn't tell the difference between it and the Les Paul Standard. I added orange drop capacitors when I had the luthier Curt Cobain used and this guitar screams! I've been playing since 1963. Criticize all you want. My Epiphone Les Paul is a good guitar!

[@Bumerang37]

Hi. Does the epiphone les paul custom 2023 or previous "inspired by Gibson" les paul custom has solid maple top ?

[@Mike_HuntizWet]

Yep

[@airyboo6443]

I own an IBG ES 335, and a Fender Japan aerodyne. The Epiphone i paid $500, the Fender $700. The differnce in craftsmanship is IMMENSE. The Epiphone required $250 to get up to snuff, and it still isn't in the same ballpard as the Fender out of the box. The Fender feels as nice as american ultras. For me the name doesn't matter, but same as guitar pedals, i will not be wasting any money one anything coming out of China. America, Japan, UK, and Germany only for me.

[@jubei7259]

I actually dig the 490/498 pups but then I got most of my Gibsons in the 90's so they all came stock with them & I guess I just kinda got used to them over years of playing. You're getting a like though for playing 'Anarchy' lol. I love the Pistols.

[@corycunningham4336]

490r and 498t might cost less but don’t let the price point fool you they are a great versatile pickup

[@mr3klax]

I’ll take this any day over the 1959 Standard just like I’ll take an Ebony fretboard over Indian Laurel. I can swap pickups but I can’t swap fretboards. I’m not saying it can’t be done but for all practical intents and purposes, changing fretboards would be impractical if not difficult.

[@ronyeahright9536]

i have the epi LP custom Jerry Cantrell "wino" guitar....gorgeous, flawless.....on Sweetwater right now for $849.....you can get it for $799....comes with hardshell case.....AND it has an ebony fretboard.

[@mr3klax]

@@ronyeahright9536Thank you very much my friend for the heads up. My SE at Sweetwater since 2013 takes care of me. He always gives me the best deal. He always tells me, “for you it’s always on sale!” I already have 5 Les Pauls - all upgraded by my luthier. I recently bought the new IGC 1959 ES-355 in Ebony, my first ever semi-hollow body. And I’m blown away by its woody and airy tone. It has Gibson USA Custombucker pickups and of course an Ebony fretboard. I am saving my next purchase for another semi-hollow, hopefully a burst or natural. Thanks again.

[@mlkorade]

15:30 - I am glad you said that. I have the Gibson and Epiphone Adam Jones signatures. The Epiphone is a better build than the Gibson. BUT, the way the two guitars feel is totally different. Once you get that nitro finished Gibson in your hands vs the poly Epiphone, it's night and day when it comes to how the guitars play, react, and feel. It's like a toy vs the real deal.

[@Summer92694]

Superior pickups? I wonder how that would look on a frequency response graph

[@rickguitar]

I'm pretty sure that the feeling is different. But the sound is the same. You can verify here: 12:42 and 13:04

[@dudesteve6130]

I got one of those $799 LP customs and set it up to my specs and I’m in love with it

[@JokersWild70]

My most expensive Les Paul was over $7000, and I've had or still have quite a few in the $$3500-$5800 range. That being said, I love my ruby red Epi Les Paul Alex Lifeson model

[@Tomekkplk]

the $5,000+ Gibson LP Custom also has the same electronics.. so at the end of the day $1,299 for the epiphone and $125 for locking tuners.. You have a solid work horse. Much better deal than the $5,000+ Gibson. Also, how is the custombucker that much better? Just because it costs more doesn't mean it's better.

[@erikkorhonen]

JJN needs to get a gibson headstock signature

[@Stainte_72]

I have the alpine white LH, the “gold” humbuckers and saddle plating wore off with in three months of play. Don’t try to clean them with anything more than a clean rag. All it will do is take off what plating is left.

[@jasonmorris3533]

I've had a Gibson studio, an Epi standard, an Epi custom, and a Gibson Les Paul traditional .. all of them from different decades.. all of them played, felt, and sounded killer.. the two Epi ones played really really easily, but the Gibson traditional was my fav.. it just felt more, organic if that makes sense.. but they each had low action, fat tone, and sustain for days. All the Gibson hate nowadays is just haters.. no USA made decent guitar is cheap.. for the money, i had no complaints for my two Epi Les Pauls..i did change the pickups in each one, a JB Duncan Bridge in one and an a set of Slash zebra Duncans in my Epi custom pro.. after that, both Epi Paul's screamed, and sounded much much stronger but i gotta say even the lower rung Epi standard with a good setup and better pick-ups it was a Damn good playing , feeling and sounding guitar ..i played my first several gigs with it .

[@gwenmorrockceltique5777]

I've got mine 15 days ago..... And really love it!

[@Nattlig_PDX]

I would love to see the Inspired by 1955 Les Paul Customs come back to the Epiphone lineup, even though sadly those didn't come with a staple pickup. I ended up putting in one of Lollar's staple pickups in mine because I didn't want to do any additional routing as well as some other mods to get it closer to an 50's custom. Very cool model though.

[@tbdog99]

I really like it. If an Epiphone is good enough forJared James Nichols and John Lennon, I could probably find a way to make it work. Yes, it's overpriced for a Made in China product. But, maybe wait a few years and look at a used one, probably be in the $500-600 range, then...DEAL!

[@jordanpratt3821]

The epis that Lennon played were made here. (Here being America)

[@garettturbettmusic]

What’s the difference between a 490T and a 498T pickup?

[@miserableunoriginal]

8

[@rindred]

490 = Alnico 2, 498 = Alnico 5

[@garettturbettmusic]

@@bartonkj does a 490 ever go in the bridge? Cuz I swear my guitar (at least according to my local shop) has a 490 R in the neck and at 490 T in the bridge

[@garettturbettmusic]

@@bartonkj ok, mine is an SG, so it may be true then

[@gibgibGG]

@@garettturbettmusic Yes, I bought a new Gibson Tribute Les Paul that came with a 490R in the neck and a 490T in the bridge. I replaced the wiring with a 50's harness, and replaced the 490T with Pearly Gates. The PG definitely has a wider dynamic range--I'm happy 🙂 🎸

[@BigCarmine]

Regardless of whether its an Epi or a Gibson, the pickups are getting replaced with Alnico2 Pearly Gates, Borne's pots and Orange Drop capacitors.

[@ploptimusgrime332]

From the moment they were announced I've been eyeing the 355. I'm definitely interested in seeing that review.

[@mattsaviators]

I played a silver burst one not that long ago looks and feels great but the knobs are so much higher off the body than I would like

[@andrewhouse3246]

5 minute easy fix, loosen the nut ,push in and re tighten, just did both of mine cuz I thought the same..now much better..

[@ronhoffman7941]

Which Epiphone has the custom buckers in it ???

[@mykuntstynx9463]

The SG has 3 The middle and bridge are wired together out of phase and it sounds amazing. The 335 does too. And I'm pretty sure the Les Paul standard too.

[@ibisrox1]

I grabbed the AdamJonez silverburst and its sweet! I have the 2 Rydon Art the Standard and the V2 ML aged signed so I can compare it well sounds identical all across the board except the standard has more growl and sustain of the bunch I also have an 07 custom silverburst so yes the price is worth it

[@Crackshot729]

I used to own an Epiphone Elite Les Paul Custom in black (MIJ) and regretted selling it for years. This is a better guitar. It has much better specs and it plays much nicer, plus it's got the headstock! These are really good guitars, and the QC is actually better than my real Gibson Les Paul. Trogly's doing a little cork-sniffing here!

[@DavidOHara-t4b]

Looks ok to me. I had a gibbo custom years ago ( 2nd hand and in a bit of a state ) but sounded great . The epi isnt a gnats hair off it, and for the price? Seems a good deal.

[@RoboSteave]

Hey, what gauge and brand of strings do these and Gibsons in general come with? The same for all models or different? I'd hate getting a new guitar and having to change strings right away.

[@donthewatcher]

mine came with 10's - 46 round wound bright sounding

[@FrankBuyers...guitarista-iu3zg]

The specs of the 2021 Epiphone custom koa Les Paul now recently discontinued real koa top premium electronics hardware and build and proper epiphone headstock.... epiphone put out high models long before 2024....Les Paul Custom Bound All-Mahogany Body w/ Koa Top 24.75" Scale Rolled Mahogany Neck w/ Ebony Fretboard & Pearloid Inlays Dual ProBucker Humbucker Pickups Era-Appropriate Wiring & CTS Potentiometers Fixed Bridge, Graph Tech NuBone Nut '60s Style Kalamazoo Headstock & Grover Rotomatic 18:1 TunersThe new Epiphone Koa-topped mahogany body Les Paul Custom is part of Epiphone’s Inspired by Gibson Collection and honors the 1950s classic designed by Mr. Les Paul himself in 1954 as the “tuxedo” version of his groundbreaking solid body masterpiece! Featuring the traditional Custom bound all-mahogany body, 60s SlimTaper™ neck profile, ebony fingerboard with block inlays, gold Epiphone LockTone™ Tune-O-Matic™ bridge and Stop Bar tailpiece, a pair of critically acclaimed Epiphone ProBucker™ humbuckers, and Custom split-diamond inlay on the headstock. This Epiphone Inspired by Gibson model also has the 60s style Kalamazoo headstock, rolled neck for a comfortable feel, Graph Tech® NuBone® nut, era-appropriate wiring, and CTS® pots.Body Type: Solidbody Body Shape: Les Paul Custom Body Material: Mahogany Top Material: Koa Body Finish: Gloss Color: Natural NECK Neck Material: Mahogany Neck Shape: Slim Taper Neck Joint: Set Neck Radius: 12" Fingerboard Material: Ebony Fingerboard Inlay: Pearloid Blocks Number of Frets: 22, Medium Jumbo Scale Length: 24.75" Nut Width: 1.693" Nut Material: Graph Tech NuBone HARDWARE Bridge/Tailpiece: Epiphone LockTone Tune-O-Matic Bridge with Stopbar Tailpiece Tuners: Kidney-style Tuners ELECTRONICS Neck Pickup: Pro Bucker 2 Humbucker Bridge Pickup: Pro Bucker 3 Humbucker Controls: 2 x volume, 2 x tone Switching: 3-way toggle pickup switch

[@Myfingersstinklikefish]

Excellent thanks for posting.. people really need to start doing research first before they open their mouths..

[@booshting3520]

3 usernames, 1 actual person 😅 High end, Probuckers? 😅😅😅 Watch out, lads. It's the Koa collective mwhahahaaaa😅

[@LeopoldShitzalot]

​@@booshting3520says the guy no one pays attention too

[@booshting3520]

@@LeopoldShitzalot Irony, I love that 😆

[@kiwistu]

I played one of these in the Rockshop (New Zealand) a few days ago. It had a number of sharp frets on the bottom of the fretboard. not what I expect at this price.

[@mkonji8522]

This is very cool that they finally have a correct headstock. I've been mainly playing my Edwards Japan LP quitar for the last few years and it still looks like it has a little better finish in black over the Epiphone but still nice to see the visual improvements. I would like to add though for somebody who hates fret nibs I'm happy they are still not doing those. Fret nibs for historical purposes I understand, but for playability well rounded frets are far less fatiguing and get in the way less for some good neoclassical shredding.

[@jasonsapp792]

The prices of the Orville and Orville by Gibson are on par or more than this Epiphone and you don't get the Gibson electronics ... I say a great deal ! Can't wait to find one used

[@FelipeLindstron]

I love the way you do the "sound check" playing randon riffs e common chords. Usually people would shred the hell out of the guitar and we wouldnt be able to recognize anything kkkkk

[@robm.8969]

Can you tell the sound difference between a Gibson & Epiphone when they have the same electronics & pickups?

[@warmachine2098]

What I want to know if the pickup routes are exactly routed in the same spot as the Gibson. The consistency between the MIK and CHINA years of Epiphones I doubt are the same.

[@ChrisShortyAllen]

No.

[@carymelanieloynd1894]

I happen to own on ebony Les Paul Custom $5,000 guitar I bought an epiphone Alpine White and the bigge😮st difference is just the weight of the guitar the Epiphone I have is 100% quality to the Les Paul Custom by Gibson

[@MarbsMusic]

I think the value also depends on if you like that set. The bridge is much hotter than the others and pretty bright as well. Money wise they are cheaper but if you like them then at least you don't have to replace them or anything.

[@RandomStuffWithBill]

I just placed an order for mine got a sweet deal from my rep at the "Sweet" shop, ETA is within the next week or so.. Can't wait :)

[@JohnJarvis-d8n]

I brought a 2019 Epiphone LP Custom Pro and whilst in the music store compared it to the Gibson 60’s model. Was surprised to see and hear they were 99% equal but prices were poles apart. I have an ‘81 standard and can’t find fault with the Epiphone Customer Pro.

[@I-Libertine]

They call it ebony, but Tbh, I wouldn't care if it were richlite: those boards feel infinitely better than the Indian laurel, and, frankly, look great. I wish that richlite were the go-to option.

[@martyshwaartz971]

Richlite’s the best. Feels and looks like ebony but way lower maintenance.

[@grimoire7851]

richlite no sound

[@MickeyMouse-xy6op]

To make it easier on everyone, you can have one custom made for you with the same specs, wood, hardware, electronics, etc of a Gibson for a fraction of the price. There are many Luthiers with builder experience.

[@Theartofshredding]

Honestly the 490R/ 498T set has always been one of my favorite sets from Gibson. My explorer has them and they rip! I get what you’re saying though, however with a $6000 price tag on the Gibson and with the massive improvements epiphone has made, these are almost too tempting to pass up.

[@wrathchildrocks]

The asking price here in Australia is $2699..you can get gibson lp studios for that cost, i got my gibson lp standard for $4200 these look great but they sure as shit wont be worth the asking price.

[@tonedowne]

Yeah these guitars really don’t make sense in Australia. You can get a hell of a lot of guitar for that money, especially stuff that is made here. But it’s even in Eastman and Heritage territory at $2700

[@wrathchildrocks]

​@@tonedowne Yeeeep, i mean, i get it, you get the custom look without spending like 8 to 10k but 2600 is waaaay to damn much money for an Epiphone, especially on this economy lol.

[@tonedowne]

@@wrathchildrocks Especially with the dubious resale prospects of mass produced Epiphones. At least with a Gibson you know that it isn't massively depreciating in value every year, so if things get tight you can move it and if things get really tight you can take more of a hit and move it really fast.

[@badtonestudio]

I agree that better pickups would have off set value a bit and perhaps maybe made this one a bit more inspiring to play. Even in standard production Gibson guitars that have the 490/498 set stock I factor in a pickup swap as I know I’ve never been able to bond with them. If I see one of these in the wild I will give it a spin. However the finish feel Trog talks about always puts me off too

[@yesthatjake5601]

I think the idea is if you can't find a Studio and you're bummed on the Lite and Modern Studio because of how different they are from a proper LP, Epi has this. They all use the same pickup set so that's how I even stumbled on to this version.

[@redheart6995]

@Trog you can dull it down at taste! Its pretty easy! For me its the feel of this exact guitar model that felt short. Lookwise its crazy good. I used virtuoso polish and cleaner on this and the weird plastiquy feeling went away. Now it looks and feel great!

[@Disembodied_Voice]

I think the price discrepancy with the pickups is more or less loss leader thinking. Of these new models, which do you think they'll sell more of? So somewhat cheaper pickups on the Custom vs fewer sold of the higher spec models but all at the same price point equals profit. These are all selling like crazy, but I'd be willing to bet demand for the customs is overall higher.